Russian Delegation Visit to North Korea to Commemorate the 70th Anniversary of Korean War Armistice Agreement
Russian Delegation Led by Defense Minister Shoigu
A delegation from Russia, led by Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu, is set to visit North Korea to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the armistice agreement of the Korean War. The delegation, consisting of military officials, will participate in various activities to celebrate this significant milestone in the history of the Korean Peninsula.
Activities to Celebrate the Anniversary
The delegation from Russia will join in the commemorative events held in Pyongyang, which North Korea refers to as the “Victory in the Great Fatherland Liberation War.” These activities are expected to include ceremonies, parades, and other symbolic gestures to honor the veterans and remember the sacrifices made during the war.
Exception to COVID-19 Quarantine Rules
In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the North Korean government has granted an exception to its strict quarantine regulations for the Russian delegation. This exception allows them to enter the country without undergoing the usual quarantine protocols, ensuring that the visit can proceed as planned.
Strengthening Military Relations
The visit of the Russian delegation to North Korea is seen as a significant step in bolstering the military relations between the two countries. The trip aims to enhance cooperation and understanding between the armed forces of Russia and North Korea, laying the groundwork for future collaboration and exchanges in the defense sector.
China’s Delegation to Attend the Event
In addition to the Russian delegation, China plans to send its own high-level delegation to attend the commemorative events in North Korea. Vice Chairman of the National People’s Congress, Lý Hồng Trung, will lead the delegation, further emphasizing the importance of this anniversary and the involvement of key regional players.
Return of International Delegations to North Korea
This occasion marks the first time that North Korea has invited foreign delegations since it closed its borders in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The decision to open its doors to international visitors for this commemoration highlights the significance the North Korean government attaches to the anniversary and its desire to engage with the international community.
The Historical Significance of the Korean War
The Korean War, which lasted from 1950 to 1953, was a devastating conflict between North Korea (supported by China) and South Korea (backed by the United Nations, mainly led by the United States). The war resulted in millions of casualties and left a lasting impact on the Korean Peninsula. The armistice agreement signed on July 27, 1953, brought an end to active hostilities but did not officially declare peace, leaving the two Koreas technically still in a state of war.
Russia-North Korea Relations in the Context of Global Conflicts
Since the outbreak of the Ukraine crisis and tensions between Russia and Ukraine, North Korea has sought to strengthen its relationship with Russia. The North Korean government openly supports Moscow’s stance in international forums, such as the United Nations, aligning itself against what it perceives as “domineering and unilateral policies” pursued by Western powers, particularly the United States.
Kim Jong-un’s Message to Russia
In a congratulatory message sent to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Victory Day, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un expressed his trust and confidence in Russia’s ability to counter threats from hostile forces. Kim emphasized the importance of cooperation to preserve sovereignty, territorial integrity, and regional stability. This message further cements the mutual understanding and shared perspectives between North Korea and Russia.
In conclusion, the upcoming visit of the Russian delegation to North Korea for the commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Korean War armistice agreement holds immense historical and diplomatic significance. The participation of high-level officials from Russia and China highlights the enduring importance of the Korean War in regional geopolitics.
